This presentation explores how simple gestures can create powerful and lasting change. The speaker reflects on a moment in her childhood when she received a low grade and felt discouraged, but a teacher's kind and encouraging words gave her the confidence to keep going. Today, she stands as an academic prefect who has set new records. She also shares a memory of her mother quietly paying for someone else's groceries, a small but meaningful act of kindness. Through these personal stories, the talk reminds us that even the smallest acts of support, encouragement, or generosity can leave a lasting mark and inspire others to grow, lead, and do good in return.A true scholar and mentor at heart, Uche Onyema is a 16-year-old student leader dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge and the power of shared learning. As the Academic Prefect of Grange School, Uche finds joy in helping others grow, ensuring that learning is not just a personal journey but a collective experience. Her love for debating, where she serves as the Debate Captain, has sharpened her ability to challenge perspectives and engage in thought-provoking discussions.Beyond academics, Uche expresses her creativity through crochet, art, and music, finding solace in the soothing notes of the saxophone. She thrives on building meaningful connections, spreading kindness, and inspiring others. Today, she takes the TEDx stage, ready to ignite new ideas and spark ripples of change. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
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- 15:27A Place of Our Own | James Bailey | TEDxCollierHeightsThis talk traces the extraordinary legacy of Collier Heights—one of the first communities in the U.S. built by and for Black homeowners during the height of segregation. Through the story of visionaries like Mr. Russell and the collective determination of Black Atlantans, the speaker illuminates how ownership—of land, of narrative, of future—became a tool of resistance and empowerment. At its heart, The Power of Ownership is a tribute to the people who dared to dream, build, and protect a neighborhood where Black excellence could thrive. Committed to living by his personal motto, “Build As We Climb”, change agent, thought leader, entrepreneur and emerging philanthropist, James M. Bailey has dedicated his life to serving others. James serves as President and CEO of the Russell Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (RCIE). Honoring the great legacy and visionary business leadership of Herman J. Russell, Sr., he will lead the development of the largest center in America, driven by impact, dedicated to empowering Black entrepreneurs and small business owners; over 50,000 square feet designed to inspire ideas, create jobs, grow companies, and increase wealth in the community.An Atlanta native and die-hard Georgia Bulldog, James has a proven track record of success, recognized by 3 U.S. Presidents for his leadership and community efforts. In 2012, James was one of eight Americans honored at the White House as a “Champion of Change: Following in the Footsteps of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.” This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
